US Journalist Alleges Extreme Brutality by Israeli Guards After Flotilla Detention

A US-born journalist has made shocking claims of abuse following her arrest by Israeli forces. Noa Avishag Schnall was detained on an aid flotilla headed for Gaza. She accuses her jailers of severe physical assault and threats.

Schnall was working for Drop Site News on the Global Sumud Flotilla. Israeli soldiers intercepted the vessel, named Conscience, in international waters early last Wednesday. Her allegations describe a pattern of inhumane treatment.

Detailed Account of Alleged Abuse Emerges

In a video statement, Schnall appeared with visible injuries. She detailed a harrowing ordeal of violence. According to Reuters, she claimed the brutality began immediately upon detention.

“Our boat was attacked around 5 a.m.,” Schnall stated. She said she was hung from metal shackles on her wrists and ankles. She alleges a group of male and female guards then beat her repeatedly.

“I was beaten on my stomach, back, face, ear, and skull,” she claimed. Schnall also stated one guard sat on her neck and face. This action allegedly blocked her airways.

Wider Allegations of Systemic Mistreatment Surface

Schnall’s account is not isolated. She alleges all 150 activists on the flotilla faced similar inhumane treatment. She claimed they were handcuffed, blindfolded, and forced into stressful positions.

“At least one woman has reported being physically penetrated by guards,” Schnall alleged. She said the guards laughed at the woman’s pain. Others, including herself, endured threats of rape and suffocation.

Many deported activists have corroborated these claims in Istanbul. “They put us on our knees, facing down. And if we moved, they hit us,” said Italian councillor Paolo Romano. His account supports the pattern of alleged abuse.

The situation highlights the intense volatility surrounding aid missions to Gaza. These Israeli guard brutality allegations are likely to intensify scrutiny of military detention protocols and demand a formal investigation.

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Q1: Who is Noa Avishag Schnall?

Noa Avishag Schnall is a US-born photojournalist. She was working for the independent outlet Drop Site News. She was detained aboard the Global Sumud aid flotilla.

Q2: What are the main allegations against the Israeli guards?

The core allegations include severe physical beatings and threats of rape. Schnall also claims she was hung from shackles and suffocated. Other activists report similar violent and humiliating treatment.

Q3: Where did the flotilla interception occur?

The Israeli military detained the aid ship in international waters. The incident happened early on a Wednesday morning. The vessel was attempting to reach Gaza.

Q4: Have other activists confirmed these events?

Yes, several other deported activists have shared similar stories. Accounts from individuals like Italian councillor Paolo Romano describe being hit and insulted. These reports lend credibility to the claims of systemic mistreatment.

Q5: What has been the official response to these allegations?

As of this reporting, an official statement from Israeli authorities is pending. The allegations are serious and are expected to prompt a formal inquiry. International observers are closely monitoring the situation.

Trusted Sources: Reuters